Magnetoelectric 3D printing technology - the revolution of actuatable composites

ongoing

The EVA project puts forward a radically new 3D printing technology that will revolutionize the nature of composites, transforming them from passive elements to responsive systems that can be instructed to execute tasks – on command. A technology that can program the mechanical, magnetic and electrical anisotropy of 3D printed structures in any direction, to fabricate systems that can be wirelessly actuated to elicit variable electrical responses during operation. Such unprecedented control over the properties and active functionalities of the printed systems will offer great advantages in multiple applications such as biotechnology (e.g. scaffolds to stimulate growth and differentiation of stem cells – 1st proof-of-principle), wastewater treatment (e.g. high-efficiency catalytic membrane to free wastewaters from persistent micropollutants – 2nd proof-of-principle), next-generation robotics, security and future data-storage technologies. EVA technology will empower engineers, researchers, and industrialists wanting to develop new concepts, materials, or functional devices to fine-tune matter at will with an affordable table-top solution. A technology enabling a new generation of multifunctional actuatable composites that can be printed and leveraged to develop radically new applications impacting multiple sectors of the economy. The potential of EVA project to achieve a proof-of-principle, and validate the scientific basis of the proposed breakthrough technology through this PATHFINDER call, is shown by the immediate endorsement from respected stakeholders, e.g. multinational corporations (Siemens) and disruptive SMEs (Nanoscribe & Transpharmation), policy makers, health professionals’ organisations, patients’ associations, and end-users (healthcare and water treatment facilities). These stakeholders will play vital advisory roles on the feasibility, transferability and exploitability of the proposed technology.